July 31, 2010

Working Out With the Nike + iPod Sport Kit

Nike+ Shoes and iPod Sport Kit

So, I’m finally ready to roll with the Nike + iPod Sport Kit. I received it as a gift back at Christmas time, but hadn’t used it for a few reasons… First, my old running shoes were old, beaten down and not fit for the road. Second, I wanted to pick up a new pair of Nike + shoes to get things going.

Yesterday I picked up a pair of Nike Men’s Air Max Moto + 6 shoes (wow, that’s a mouthful) and so far they feel great. Have been wearing them around the office a bit to get used to them and break ‘em in.

At any rate, I’ll be posting on my experiences with the Nike + shoes and sport kit. I’m sure it’ll go super-smooth, but stay tuned to find out my point of view.

Anyone else out there train with the help of the Nike + system?

Runners Rejoice: Nike+ Coming to iPhone and iPod Touch

Nike+ Coming to iPhone and iPod TouchMark Wilson over at Stuff.tv reports that the Nike+ running companion is definitely coming to the iPhone and iPod Touch. He was at Nike’s headquarters in Oregon, and was fortunate to have a little chat with a Nike+ spokesperson.

The interesting bit here is that the Nike+ on the iPhone or iPod touch could allow you to update your training long on the fly, while you are in the middle of a workout. Head out for your run and send inĀ  your data via wireless without having to connect to your computer at all. Convenient! Looks like Nike+ is shaping up to be an even better companion and training tool for your run.

Only potential problem here I see for some is the size. The iPhone and iPod Touch are much larger than the nano. The nano fits comfortably in your hand, a holster or in your pocket and weighs nothing at all. I could see the extra size (and value!) of the iPhone and Touch being a concern for some runners. However, I suppose adding the Wi-Fi and possible GPS capability down the road could make it a great trade-off.

Interestingly enough this news comes on the heels of rumored reports of GPS coming to the iPhone 2.0. Nike+ plus GPS… Can you see the possibilities!?

Samsung and Adidas Introduce miCoach Workout Tracking System

Samsung and Adidas Set to Compete with Apple and NikeSamsung and Adidas are joining forces to compete directly with Apple and Nike (creators of the Nike+iPod program).

Together than have introduced the miCoach workout tracking system. The miCoach combines the miCoach phone with a heartrate monitor and stride sensor to provide very accurate information on your workout.

Pricing is not known yet, however it is due to hit the shelves in Europe mid-March. I would suspect it would make its way to North America by April or May… Just in time for the summer.

With the miCoach you can set up your own milestones, and it will let you know when you are approaching them… In particular it will encourage you to speed up to reach specific milestones you have set up.

Eric Liedtke, VP of Adidas Brand Marketing noted:

“miCoach is the most advanced interactive training system in the marketplace, blending sophisticated mobile technology with the most advanced in sport innovation and training. The uniqueness of miCoach is that it collects and analyzes personal data and then customizes training plans based on your fitness level and specific goals, while giving you real-time feedback during your workout via the miCoach phone.”

You can pick up the phone by itself if you wish. The monitor and stride sensor are sold separately. The phone features 1GB of memory and a 2MP camera. It is available in seven colors: Dark Gray, Tech Silver, Pink Red, Cool Gray, Sapphire Blue, Misty Blue, and Sweet Pink.

[via akihabaranews]